What Is Scar Revision? - Everyday Health

There are many ways to perform scar revision. You and your doctor will choose the technique that will offer you the best outcome.

If you're having a surgical procedure, your doctor might cut out your scar and stitch up the area. With Z-plasty, scars are repositioned so they're not as noticeable. Doctors can also cover the scar with transplanted skin that's taken from another area of your body with a skin graft or skin flap approach.

Or, you might have a tissue expansion procedure to slowly stretch the skin and replace the scar tissue. This procedure can sometimes be a complex process that involves multiple procedures to achieve the desired outcome.

If you're having a surface treatment, doctors may use dermabrasion to smooth the skin, bleaching agents to lighten the skin, or chemical peels to improve texture and color. Laser therapy is another option that targets the surface of the skin and allows healthy skin to develop at the site of the scar.

Dermal fillers are often helpful for scars that are sunken or depressed.

Alternatively, steroid injections can improve the appearance of raised scar tissue.

With cryotherapy, doctors apply extreme cold to destroy scars.

Pressure therapy involves wearing a bandage or dressing that applies pressure to the wound while it heals. This extra tension may help lessen the size of a scar.